The Consulate General of Canada is urging travellers to use the official website to register for an electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA), after reports of ‘scam’ websites charging up to $122 for the application.

The initiative, introduced by Citizenship and Immigration Canada, requires Australian travellers to apply online at canada.ca/eTA, providing basic personal information similar to what is currently collected when they arrive in Canada.

The simple application process, live since August 2015, is convenient and paperless, with most eTAs approved within minutes. In addition, the new eTA system means travellers to Canada can expect a faster service upon arrival at the border.

The eTA is electronically linked to the traveller’s passport and is valid for five years or until the passport expires, whichever comes first. Last minute applications can be made on any device with an internet connection, including mobile phones.

Dual Canadian citizens cannot apply for an eTA and will need a valid Canadian passport to board their flight. Even if the Australian government needs them to enter and exit Australia using their Australian passport, they will still need a valid Canadian passport to board a flight to Canada.

This means that people with dual Australian/Canadian citizenship must ensure they carry both passports when they travel.

Travellers born outside Canada to a parent who is Canadian, or those who are unsure about their status, can see Am I Canadian? to find out more.